The best camping in Harriman State Park, NY

A haven for hikers with more than 200 miles of trails that range from easy to strenuous, Harriman State Park also boasts 31 lakes, two beaches, and near-endless vistas, plus lake activities such as swimming, fishing, paddling, boating, ice fishing, and ice skating. New York’s second-biggest state park, Harriman is an easy getaway from New York City. The park’s primitive Beaver Pond Campground has no hookups and is best suited to tent campers, but it can accommodate smaller RVs, trailers, and campervans up to 30 feet long.

1. At just an hour’s drive from New York City, Harriman is a favored weekend getaway for New Yorkers, which means that you should make weekend bookings as far in advance as possible. 
2. Bookings can easily be secured online or by phone, up to nine months in advance.
3. From mid-May to early October, same-day reservations are permitted only until 3pm. No walk-ins are allowed.

Spring and summer are the busiest seasons and the best times for enjoying paddling and swimming in the lakes, but fall and winter have their own appeal. The park’s lush foliage explodes into rich colors in fall, which is also the ideal time for tackling the park’s hiking and biking trails. In the colder months, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing are all a possibility. While Beaver Pond closes in winter, you can still camp at one of the lean-tos.

• Backcountry camping is prohibited but there are a number of cabins, lean-tos, and other shelters, all offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Black bears are active in the park, so be sure to secure food and garbage.
• Up to two pets per site are welcome, as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet.
• There is no fee to enter the park, but you will have to pay to park at either of the two public beaches (Lake Welch or Lake Tiorati) or at the Bear Mountain Inn parking area.